Enlarged lymph nodes, also known as lymphadenopathy, are quite common among children. The lymph nodes are responsible for filtering lymph fluid, which carries waste, toxins, and infections.

When the lymph nodes detect an infection, they become enlarged as they produce more lymphocytes to fight the infection.

In some instances, enlarged lymph nodes may be a sign of an underlying condition. This article will explore some of the possible causes of enlarged lymph nodes in children.

1. Infections

One of the most common causes of enlarged lymph nodes in children is an infection. The lymph nodes may enlarge when the body tries to fight an infection. Some of the infections that may cause lymph node enlargement include:.

Ear infections
Throat infections
Skin infections
Tonsillitis
Urinary tract infections

2. Viruses

Viral infections can also cause enlarged lymph nodes in children. The lymph nodes may remain enlarged for several weeks or even months after the infection has cleared. Some of the common viral infections that may cause lymph node enlargement include:.

Measles
Chickenpox
Mononucleosis
HIV/AIDS
Herpes virus

3. Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections can also cause lymph node enlargement in children. Some of the common bacterial infections that may cause lymphadenopathy include:.

Tuberculosis
Strep throat
Lyme disease
Meningitis
Cat scratch disease

4. Allergies

Allergic reactions can lead to enlarged lymph nodes in some children. The lymph nodes may become enlarged as the body tries to fight the allergic reaction. Some of the common allergens that may cause lymph node enlargement include:.

Pollen
Dust mites
Insect bites
Food allergies
Medication allergies

5. Cancers

In some cases, enlarged lymph nodes in children may be a sign of cancer. The lymph nodes may become enlarged as cancer cells spread through the lymphatic system. Some of the common types of childhood cancers that may cause lymph node enlargement include:.

Leukemia
Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Neuroblastoma
Wilm’s tumor

6. Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases can also cause lymph node enlargement in some children. The body’s immune system can attack the lymph nodes, causing them to become enlarged. Some of the common autoimmune diseases that may cause lymphadenopathy include:.

Lupus
Rheumatoid arthritis
Sjogren’s syndrome
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
Graves’ disease

7. Medications

Some medications can cause lymph node enlargement in children. The lymph nodes may enlarge as the body reacts to the medication. Some of the medications that may cause lymphadenopathy include:.

Antibiotics
Anticonvulsants
Antiretroviral therapy
Immunoglobulin therapy
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

8. Inherited Conditions

Enlarged lymph nodes in children may also result from inherited conditions. Some of the common conditions that may cause lymphadenopathy include:.

Hyper-IgM syndrome
X-linked lymphoproliferative syndrome
DiGeorge syndrome
Bloom syndrome
Familial Mediterranean fever

9. HIV Infection

In some cases, enlarged lymph nodes in children may be a sign of HIV infection. The lymph nodes may become enlarged as the body tries to fight the virus.

Children who are born to mothers with HIV are at a higher risk of developing enlarged lymph nodes due to HIV infection.

10. Trauma

Finally, trauma can also cause lymph node enlargement in some children. The lymph nodes may become enlarged as a result of injury or surgery in the area near the nodes.

Conclusion

Enlarged lymph nodes in children can be a sign of various conditions, some more serious than others. If your child’s lymph nodes become enlarged and do not improve after a week or two, you should consult your doctor.

Your doctor may recommend tests to determine the underlying cause of the lymphadenopathy. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the enlargement.